By By Elizabeth Ugbo
United Nigeria Airlines has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world aviation practice by providing structured industrial training opportunities for engineering student, He outlines how eligible students will undergo hands-on training with the airline under the Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme to gain practical exposure in key areas of the aviation sector.
The partnership is centred on human capital development and is designed to equip students of ABUAD’s College of Engineering with industry-relevant skills. According to the airline, the initiative reflects its commitment to combining corporate growth with social responsibility and sustained investment in people.
Describing the collaboration as a deliberate effort to prepare young Nigerians for the realities of the aviation industry, the airline said the programme would expose students to real operational environments and practical experiences beyond theoretical classroom instruction.Under the terms of the MoU, participating students will undertake industrial attachment with United Nigeria Airlines, gaining experience in aeronautical and aerospace engineering, aircraft maintenance, and airline operations. The airline noted that the exposure would provide participants with the technical competence and professional insight required in today’s fast-evolving aviation landscape.Chairman and Founder of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, characterised the agreement as a strategic investment in the future of Nigeria’s aviation industry. He emphasised that the sustainability and growth of the sector depend largely on the quality of skilled professionals it produces.
Okonkwo also commended ABUAD’s founder and Chancellor, Aare Afe Babalola, for his contributions to education and national development, describing the institution as a credible partner known for academic excellence and strong values.
He added that as the airline approaches its fifth anniversary of commercial operations, it remains committed to initiatives that promote education, youth empowerment and professional development, in line with its broader vision of contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s development beyond air transportation.
